Back to document

Diversity Diaries: Andy Rieger

By Andy Rieger
Managing editor, The Norman (Okla.) Transcript

08.29.01

I was making an assignment to a young reporter of Native American ancestry. I asked her to cover the 89er Day parade and celebration. This is the anniversary of the land run in which Oklahoma settlers were given land that was once occupied by Native Americans. I didn't even think about it. It's a story we do every year. The reporter said to me, "Mr. Rieger, just what exactly is it that we are celebrating?" I knew then that I had been insensitive.